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Circular Design Utilizing Natural Stone and Geothermal Features for Integrated Wellness Spaces

Author:
Luc jean jacques Jousselin
Circular Design Utilizing Natural Stone and Geothermal Features for Integrated Wellness Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing geothermal resources and circular design, the wellness center integrates natural stone and wood to create a harmonious environment focused on relaxation and rejuvenation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geothermal heating is utilized for both energy efficiency and visitor comfort.
02
Circular design enhances social interaction and promotes a sense of community.
03
Natural stone cladding integrates the structure seamlessly with its landscape.
04
Eco-friendly materials, including cross-laminated timber, reduce environmental impact.
05
A green roof supports biodiversity and provides additional insulation.

### Project Overview

The Myvatn Wellness Center, also known as Sel Hótel, is situated in the geothermal landscapes of Iceland, emphasizing a design that reflects the region's natural and cultural context. The intent of the project is to create a facility that incorporates sustainable practices, harmonizing with its environment while enhancing the experience of health and well-being for its users.

### Spatial Strategy

The design employs a circular and fluid layout, allowing for a coherent flow of movement and fostering a tranquil atmosphere. Spaces are thematically organized into distinct zones, facilitating various functions such as relaxation and social interaction. Central to the layout are water and sauna areas, which support a communal sense of wellness. Dining and tasting areas are positioned to offer guests views of the surrounding landscape, while private rooms and suites provide intimate settings that enhance comfort and privacy. The geographical context is integral to the design, ensuring that visitors can engage with the views of nearby lakes and volcanic formations.

### Material Choices and Sustainability

The selection of materials plays a critical role in the project's sustainability and overall aesthetic. Key materials include concrete blocks, which provide structural integrity while complementing the landscape, and natural stone sourced locally, ensuring visual harmony with the terrain. Wooden finishes enhance the interior environments, particularly in spaces designated for relaxation, such as saunas. Additionally, aluminum flashing offers durability suited to the local climate, and thermal insulation is implemented to optimize energy efficiency throughout changing seasons. The green roof serves to enhance biodiversity, provide insulation, and reflect the project's commitment to ecological sustainability.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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